How Long Does it Take to Drive Around New Zealand? Driving around New Zealand can take anywhere between 30 hours, if driving from top to bottom and taking the ferry between the North and South Island, to 65 hours if doing a thorough road trip of both islands with the ferry included.

To truly experience both the North and South Islands of New Zealand by car, a minimum of three to four weeks is highly recommended. While the total driving time to travel from the northernmost tip (Cape Reinga) to the southernmost point (Bluff) is only about 30 to 35 hours of pure driving, the beauty of the country lies in its winding roads and frequent stops. A common itinerary allows for 7–10 days on the North Island to see Auckland, Rotorua, and Wellington, and 14–21 days on the South Island for the Southern Alps, Milford Sound, and Queenstown. If you only have two weeks, it is often better to focus on just one island to avoid spending your entire vacation behind the wheel. Remember that New Zealand roads are often narrow, steep, and winding, and the Interislander ferry crossing between Wellington and Picton takes nearly 4 hours (plus check-in time). Therefore, you should always factor in extra time for weather-related delays and frequent "photo stops" that will inevitably slow your progress through the stunning landscapes.